The Zeta Epsilon Chapter

The Zeta Epsilon Chapter itself was the inspiration of Brother William Turner who was initiated at the Beta Rho Chapter at Allen University in 1966.  After transferring to USC in the fall of 1966, Brother Turner served as the inspiration for men at Carolina who later pledged Kappa at Allen University.  These men would be the impetus in establishing a chapter here at USC. The continued initiation of USC students at Allen led to efforts to establish a chapter here at the University of South Carolina.  However, the brothers faced stern opposition from both the University and the Interfraternity Council (IFC).  The regulations and requirements for establishing chapters were structured in a manner meant to discourage the establishment of an African-American fraternity. To combat this evident racism and mounting opposition, the Executive Secretary of Kappa Alpha Psi came to Columbia to meet with USC officials. The negotiations were often tense and emotional.  In a meeting with then USC Dean of Student Affairs Eugene Cooper, Brother Executive Secretary Morris explained the goals and purposes of Kappa Alpha Psi.  In addition, he pointed out the necessity of a social outlet and a need for African-American college men of purpose the opportunity to share common ideas under a fraternal bond. Thus, on September 25, 1970, the Zeta Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi was chartered in Rutledge Chapel on the campus of the University of South Carolina.  The chartering of Zeta Epsilon is especially significant in that it marked the establishment of the first African American Greek-letter organization on the University of South Carolina’s campus.